Star-block interpolymers and preparation of the same

Abstract

The present invention relates to star-block interpolymers having the following structure (X—Y)n—C, wherein X represents a random copolymer block derived from conjugated diene and monovinyl aromatic monomer; Y represents a polyconjugated diene block; C represents a residue derived from a multifunctional lithium based initiator; and n represents the functionality of the initiator and has a value of not less than 3; and preparation of the same. The star-block interpolymers according to the present invention have in the same molecule both a random copolymer block derived from conjugated diene and monovinyl aromatic monomer and a rubber block selected from the group consisting of a homopolymer block derived from conjugated diene, a tapered copolymer block derived from conjugated dienes, a random copolymer block derived from conjugated dienes and combinations thereof, and hence possess excellent properties of the both kinds of rubbers, and can be used widely as elastomeric materials.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.